5 Ways Haragei is Used in Japanese Non-Verbal Communication

Communication in the Japanese business world can often make you feel like you’re playing a constant guessing game. Messages can be hazy, details not specific enough, and questions sometimes seem to be forbidden. As an international business woman, you’re probably aware that the style of communication in Japan relies heavily on non-verbal cues. However, are you familiar with one of the driving forces behind this implicit style of communication?

Haragei, literally means “Art of the stomach”. Think of it as an elaborate style of intuitive communication. Almost like a “sixth sense”, Haragei drives people to exchange thoughts and feelings – “belly to belly” – without using words. Instead, facial expressions, timing, sounds, and even silence convey messages, mask true emotions, and influence business meetings.

Here are five notable ways in which Haragei is used in Japan.

1. Prolonged Silence

During a business meeting or negotiation, prolonged silence can be quite painful for non-Japanese. After about 4-6 seconds, you feel the urge to break it. In Japan however, up to 40 seconds of silence is not uncommon; it’s often viewed as the most productive time during a meeting. As a form of Haragei, silence can imply a positive response, such as “Yes, I like what you’re saying, let me have a minute to think about it”. Or, it can carry a negative message and be used as a social buffer to avoid confrontation. In either case, it’s best to be patient and let the other person continue the conversation when they’re ready.

2. Hissing sound

The audible hissing sound made by drawing air through the teeth and lips is a technique used by Japanese to show their displeasure or disagreement without having to explicitly state it. Again, Haragei is at work here in an attempt to avoid open confrontation. In this situation, the listener should understand from this sound that the “hisser’s” true thoughts are: “That’s a difficult request”. If you’re confronted with this sound, it’s best to recognise the difficulty for the other person and perhaps offer an alternative option.

3. Vague Questions

The mutual understanding that Japanese gain from non-verbal cues and context frees them from having to constantly clarify and specify with questions. In most Western countries, there is a need to make everything clear, and questions are often used to eliminate vagueness in conversation. In Japan however, Haragei enables people to “read between the lines”, and in this context, asking many questions may be inappropriate.

4. Suggesting “No”

The Japanese don’t like to directly say “No”. Instead, they’ll use a variety of techniques to imply “No” and to avoid potentially giving offence. Silence, the hissing sound, and even statements, such as “That will be a little difficult” or “I’ll do my best”, are typical examples of Haragei at work. In each of these instances, the speaker is concealing their true thoughts and feelings, yet the listener understands them. If you’re confronted with Haragei in this way, interpret it as “No”.

5. Modest Gift Giving

When you offer somebody a gift in Japan, it’s customary to accompany it with a phrase such as “This is an insignificant gift …”. The giver probably doesn’t think their gift is insignificant (a Japanese person would never offer a gift they thought to be trifle), but they use this type of statement to show modesty. The receiver wouldn’t think they’re getting an insignificant gift either, but they can sense the modesty of the giver. Haragei is at work here because the receiver can feel the true feelings of the giver without it being explicitly stated.

Haragei is an important and powerful concept in Japanese business communication. Even though it takes many years to learn, grasping Haragei offers you insights into that “sixth sense”, so you can begin to intuitively understand what your Japanese business associates are thinking and feeling.

Have you ever travelled to Japan on business? Did you encounter any of the above non-verbal communication strategies? Leave your comments in the section below.

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About Kara

Kara Ronin is the founder of Executive Impressions. She is an executive coach who specialises in leadership presence, social skills and business etiquette. She is also the creator of Bestselling Udemy course, Business Etiquette 101. Kara’s advice and unique perspectives have been featured inTime Inc., Business Insider, Ignites Europe (a Financial Times Service), The Muse, The Local France, The West Australian, and more. Kara works regularly with lawyers, investment bankers, and finance professionals to help them build presence, authority and influence in business. Get Kara's insights delivered straight to your inbox

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